Internal Security Act necessary, diplomats told
The Internal Security Act (ISA) is necessary in three Bangkok districts to prevent violence from political protests as well as to maintain peace and order, diplomats to Thailand were told yesterday.
“The measure is transparent, reflects the current situation and is in accordance with international standards. The government has told security forces to restrain themselves, and we have told diplomats that everything is under the government’s control,” Jullapong Nonsrichai, vice minister for Foreign Affairs, said after briefing foreign ambassadors and representatives of international organisations, including the United Nations.
Up to 40 participants attended the 10-minute briefing at the Foreign Ministry yesterday. Chaired by Jullapong, it included deputy permanent secretary Vijavat Isarabhakdi and deputy national police spokesman Anucha Romyanan.
Jullapong also told participants that the government and Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra were ready to pursue political reconciliation by urging all concerned groups to join a council of political reform.
The ministry later handed out compact discs containing a statement from Yingluck about the political reform council, which she read out on television on Friday. The CD includes a printed English translation.
Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul, who called the briefing but did not attend in person, said the ministry wanted the diplomats to understand that the government desired solutions for the country and sought to reduce political conflicts in order to enhance peace.
“If the country is in turmoil it will damage investment opportunities and foreign confidence, including tourism,” he said.
